Island Inn invests $250,000 in major refurbishment

April 14, 2011

The historic Island Inn, the oldest Inn on Sanibel, has just completed phase one of a major refurbishment program modernizing all aspects of the Inn. More than $250,000 has been invested over the past year to upgrade and enhance the facilities, building a brand new spacious bar and lounge area, upgrading the outdoor areas including some creative new native landscaping throughout the property.

The Inn, which has always been known for its charming style and beach front location, now has additional modern facilities in each room, Wi-Fi throughout, beautiful grounds and a fully remodeled restaurant, bar and lounge – Traditions on the Beach.

Phase one of the refurbishment program began in earnest in May 2010 with the arrival of the new Vice President of Operations Chris Davison, who has been responsible for the direction of this major project. His challenge was to make these significant improvements to the Inn before season began, while maintaining the Island Inn’s normal calm and peaceful environment for the enjoyment of guests while this work was taking place.

“Island Inn has always had a special Sanibel charm for our guests” said Chris Davison. “Many have been coming for more than five decades, and we wanted to upgrade the facilities while ensuring that our cottages and rooms could provide the level of comfort that modern guests have come to expect. We have now completed phase one of our refurbishment and are planning phase two work to begin in the summer months.”

The main refurbishment program centered on redeveloping the new ‘Traditions on the Beach’ restaurant and the building of a new bar and lounge area. They also installed flat screen TVs and DVD/CD players in all rooms, put in WI-FI throughout the property, and installed new flooring, new windows and doors.

Phase one of the refurbishment also included the upgrading of kitchen/kitchenette equipment, new bedroom furniture in many of the rooms, painting throughout, resurfacing of the car park and a major landscaping program surrounding the property which has added to the aesthetics and comfort of guests.

The refurbishment program has been a great success; guests who have been coming year after year have expressed how much they love the Inn’s upgraded facilities.

Phase two of the refurbishment program, planned for the quieter summer months, will include enhancing the entrance and reception areas, installing new furniture in the cottages and additional new flooring.

The Island Inn, built in 1895, is committed to offering its guests an old Florida-style vacation on its spacious 10-acre gulf front site, while keeping to the highest standards of modern comfort.

Located at 3111 West Gulf Drive on Sanibel, The Island Inn's phone number is 800-851-5088. For additional information, visit www.islandinnsanibel.com.

Article Photos

Among the improvements at The Island Inn are modernizing their accommodations, upgrading the landscaping throughout the property and constructing a new bar and lounge area.